Last Of Its Kind: Historic Steam-Powered SS Delphine

Modern luxury yachts are nice, but sometimes you want something a little more vintage — and that's where SS Delphine comes in. As a remnant of a history past, this steam-powered super yacht is on the market for $49,571,000 and is considered to be the last of its kind still floating, offering up an entirely unique cruising experience. Built in 1921 for Horace Dodge (yes, that Dodge), SS Delphine is officially registered as a passenger ship, able to carry up to 36 of them and host up to 150 guests with 24 crewmembers.

The vessel has quite the history, including her catching fire and sinking in 1926. Thankfully, Horace Dodge's wife, Anna Dodge, ordered for the ship's recovery and restoration so she didn't stay in the sea. In 1940, many thought the yacht sank again after she steamed onto a rock in the Great Lakes, but she only suffered minor damage.

SS Delphine also served in WWII when she was acquired by the U.S. Navy and became the flagship of Admiral Ernest King (Commander in Chief of the U.S. fleet and Chief of Naval Operations). It's also been reported that many world leaders, including President Roosevelt, have been onboard the SS Delphine to chat about war strategies with Admiral King.

The 78.5 meter SS Delphine was fully restored in 2003, offering two VIP cabins and nine double cabins. It has a maximum speed of 12 knots and a cruising speed of 9 knots, with a range of 2,500 nautical miles at 10 knots. Each suite has an en-suite bathroom, TVs, mini bars, and entertainment system, while the public spaces (including a smoking room and a lounge) each have their own music systems that can be interconnected for large parties. There's also a pool featuring a jet stream, a fitness room, a massage bath, Turkish bath, hair salon, and a sauna that can fit up to six people.

SS Delphine has been available to charter in the West Mediterranean for years but whether it's still available isn't clear, so if you want to experience it firsthand you may just have to buy it.

JustLuxe is a luxury Web publication providing objective analysis and information to affluent consumers to assist with their decision making, such as chartering a yacht, purchasing a jet membership card, booking a luxury hotel, traveling to a specific destination, or buying real estate. Our writers conduct interviews with industry executives and leaders in their fields, analyze product offerings and review the Web sites of leading companies to ensure our readers have up-to-date data to make informed decisions. Consumers can find purveyors of fine luxury goods, services and travel solutions throughout the pages of JustLuxe via content or with our advertising partners. See our Best of Luxury high-end brands and partners.